aside

1(in the theatre)something that a character in a play says to the audience, but which the other characters on stage are not intended to hearShakespeare’s use of asides and soliloquiesSee related entries:Elements of a play

2a remark, often made in a low voice, which is not intended to be heard by everyone presentHe made several mocking asides about the inadequacy of women.

3a remark that is not directly connected with the main subject that is being discussedI mention it only as an aside.

Word OriginMiddle English (originally on side): from a, ‘to, towards’ and side.